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New Supportive Crisis Stabilization Center in East New York Introduces Groundbreaking, Walk-In Care for Individuals and Families in Crisis, 24 Hours a Day

Photos and video HERE

Brooklyn, NY – A new model of care is open and operating in East New York. Services for the UnderServed (S:US), in partnership with the New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH) and the Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS), today launched a Supportive Crisis Stabilization Center (SCSC) at 2862 Fulton Street, introducing a new model for how New Yorkers access support in a safe, healing space during moments of mental health and substance use crisis.

Open 24/7, the SCSC acts as an alternative to emergency rooms for New Yorkers in crisis. The SCSC offers a calm, living-room-style space where individuals and families can walk in and receive immediate care from mental health professionals, nurses, and peer specialists. Designed as part of a new statewide initiative, the SCSC offers voluntary, short-term support for up to 24 hours, without the threat of hospitalization or involvement with the criminal legal system.

Individuals experiencing emotional distress, mental health symptoms, substance use challenges, or other acute stressors are met with immediate stabilization, therapeutic support, compassionate care, and a clear path to ongoing care through discharge and aftercare planning.

“This Center is paving a new pathway in how we respond to crisis,” said Perry Perlmutter, President and CEO of Services for the UnderServed. “For too long, New Yorkers in distress have had limited options beyond emergency rooms or systems not designed to meet their needs. Here, we created a space where people can walk in, be met with compassion, and receive immediate support in an environment built for stabilization, dignity, and healing.”

The space itself reflects this reimagined approach. With wellness areas for adults, youth, and families, resting recliners, showers, laundry facilities, and hot meals, the Center meets both clinical and basic needs in one place, creating a safe environment.

“At the Supportive Crisis Stabilization Center, we respond to people the moment they arrive in crisis, with immediate care focused on helping them feel safe, calm, and supported,” said Dr. Sasha‑Marie Robinson, Senior Vice President of Recovery & Treatment Services. “By combining clinical care and peer support in a welcoming, home‑like setting, we address urgent needs and develop a thoughtful, individualized plan that connects people to ongoing care and recovery.”

Designed to serve New Yorkers of all backgrounds, the Center fills a critical gap in the behavioral health system, offering immediate, community-based care when and where it’s needed most. By providing an alternative to emergency departments and law enforcement response, the SCSC sets a new standard for crisis care in New York.

“Supportive crisis stabilization centers offer an alternative to unnecessary emergency care, where New Yorkers in crisis can receive behavioral health treatment for up to 24 hours,” Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Marie T. Sullivan said. “This S:US facility will provide welcoming space where these individuals can access high-quality treatment and successfully connect with services to help them on the path to recovery. With the licensing of this latest crisis stabilization center, we are supporting Governor Hochul’s ongoing commitment to expand access to mental health care in communities statewide.”

OASAS Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham said, “These programs allow individuals experiencing a substance use or mental health crisis to find immediate help and support at any time of day or night, and for many are the first step towards recovery. As we expand these facilities across the state, we are seeing success from this approach, and we look forward to the positive impact this facility will have in the New York City area.”

For more information about the Center, visit CrisisHelpNYC.org.

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About Services for the UnderServed (S:US)

S:US, one of the largest housing developers and service providers in New York, envisions a city where everyone has a roof over their head, is healthy, productive, and can enjoy the social connections that create a life of purpose. S:US has a staff of 1,800 whose efforts are supported by various local, state, and federal government entities, foundations, corporations, and individual donors. Most importantly, S:US’ breadth and depth of services enable the organization to help tens of thousands of individuals live productive, healthy, fulfilled lives each year by addressing each person’s unique challenges and creating opportunities for success.

April is Volunteer Appreciation Month, and April 19-25 marks National Volunteer Week. We’re proud to spotlight the individuals, corporate teams, and community groups who show up, roll up their sleeves, and make New York City more equitable for all.

Why Volunteers Matter

Our volunteers strengthen communities, uplift neighbors, and open doors for thousands of New Yorkers. Their contributions take many forms, including:

• Planting and harvesting in our S:US Urban Farms®
• Renovating supportive housing gardens and community spaces
• Teaching job‑readiness skills
• Leading yoga, wellness, and enrichment activities
• Wrapping gifts for individuals, seniors, and families during the holidays
• Supporting people with intellectual/developmental disabilities

Every hour given, every skill shared, and every act of kindness helps the people we serve lead fuller, more enriched lives.

Volunteer Month Spotlight

Throughout April, we’re highlighting volunteers who bring heart, creativity, and dedication to our community—from corporate partners to AmeriCorps members to individual champions. Their stories remind us that collective action fuels hope.

Join Us for Earth Day

On Saturday, April 18, we’ll gather in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, to renovate the backyard of a supportive housing for formerly homeless individuals. Volunteers will disassemble old garden beds, plant perennials, move apiary fencing, and do general clean-up of the garden area.

Find Your Place in the S:US Volunteer Community

Whether you’re an individual looking to give back or a corporate team seeking a meaningful group project, there’s a place for you at S:US.

Ways to Get Involved

• Community Days – Join other New Yorkers in hands‑on, high‑impact volunteer events.
• Team Projects – Perfect for corporate groups and organizations looking to make a collective impact.
• Ongoing Opportunities – Share a skill, build relationships, and support our programs year‑round.

Team activities typically last 3–4 hours and welcome groups of 5–20 people. Everyone is invited to dive in, get inspired, and be part of something bigger.

Thank You, Volunteers

To every volunteer who has wrapped a gift, planted a seed, taught a class, or simply shown up with compassion, thank you. You add immeasurable value to our work and to the lives of the people we serve.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Please reach out to volunteer@sus.org to get started.

Visit our Volunteer Page for more information about 2026 upcoming volunteer events.

• Learn more about S:US.
• Learn more about S:US’ services.

April is National Arab American Heritage Month. This year’s theme, “Many Voices, One Community,” reflects the breadth of Arab American identities while affirming the shared values that unite the community.

We have many people on staff and people we serve who are Arab American. Through the commemoration of this month, we are reminded that our country’s greatness lies in the rich variety of its people.

Arab America and the Arab America Foundation launched the National Arab American Heritage Month initiative in 2017. In 2022, Congress, the U.S. Department of State, and 45 state governors issued proclamations commemorating the initiative.

An estimated 3.7 million Americans have Arab roots, with ancestries tracing from 22 countries across the Middle East and North Africa. The community is as old as America itself. Arab Americans are Nobel Prize winners, philosophers, poets, doctors, actors, entrepreneurs, elected representatives, and more.

We stand with our staff, friends, neighbors, the people we serve, and all Arab Americans. We will continue to work towards racial equity and righting societal imbalances.

Child abuse and neglect are most often rooted in a lack of resources. Keeping families out of crisis is the key to preventing child abuse, and prevention is possible when we invest in families before a crisis happens.

Every child in America deserves to grow up safe, supported, and surrounded by love. This month, we remember that we all play a part in making that real.

On any given day, Services for the UnderServed serves nearly 700 children and their families in our supportive housing, shelters, and homeless prevention program Homebase. We support strong families by partnering with them to find a path to stability – through housing, mental health support, and other services.

Child abuse and neglect are preventable, and all communities benefit when children and families are well supported.

Here are some resources to prevent child abuse:

• Not a Bad Parent Problem PSA from Prevent Child Abuse America
• 10 Ways to Keep NYC Family Strong
• Child Safety Resources from NYC Children
• New York Parent Guide
• Pinwheels for Prevention coloring sheets and instructions (great activity for kids)
• Prevent Child Abuse NY

• Learn more about S:US’ Homeless Services.
• Learn more about S:US’ Housing.

In honor of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, S:US Urban Farms® staff hosted an event at our Day Habilitation Program to celebrate the people and volunteers that they employ with an intellectual/developmental disability (I/DD).

Day Habilitation program participants, Valerie and Angelo, along with Gaitree, helped prepare homemade herbal teas along with Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) that were onsite. The dried herbs used to make the tea included chamomile, lavender, echinacea, and mint. Each participant created sachets with a mix of preferred herbs to take home with them; the extra herbal teas were left at the program for everyone to enjoy on a rainy or cold day.

Valerie shared, “It was so good to make the tea. We then sipped some fresh hot tea afterwards and it was awesome! It helps me and I sip it at night before I go to bed. It’s soothing.”  

• Learn more about S:US’ Developmental Disabilities Services.
• Learn more about S:US’ Urban Farms.

How Services for the UnderServed Helps New Yorkers Secure Housing

Affordable Housing

Services for the UnderServed develops and manages affordable housing that gives low-income New Yorkers a chance to live with dignity. Our residences are designed to be safe, stable, and integrated into the community.

Permanent Housing

We believe that permanent housing is the key to long-term stability. Services for the UnderServed provides permanent housing solutions that help individuals and families break the cycle of homelessness.

Supportive Housing

For people living with mental health challenges, substance use disorders, or disabilities, supportive housing combines affordable homes with wraparound services—ensuring residents have the tools they need to maintain independence.

Housing Services

Our housing services include:

• Application assistance
• Case management
• Benefits navigation
• Financial counseling
• Connections to employment and healthcare

These services help residents not only secure housing but keep it.

How You Can Help: Donate to Help People Secure Permanent Housing

Every contribution to Services for the UnderServed helps someone move one step closer to stability. When you donate to help people secure permanent housing, you are:

• Providing safe homes for individuals and families
• Supporting mental health and wellness services
• Helping New Yorkers overcome homelessness
• Strengthening communities across the city

Your generosity fuels our mission and transforms lives.

Join Us in Building a More Equitable NYC

As searches for housing in our city continue to rise, Services for the UnderServed remains committed to meeting the moment.

We invite you to stand with us—whether by donating, volunteering, or spreading the word. Together, we can ensure that every New Yorker has access to the affordable, supportive, and permanent housing they deserve.

How to help homeless people in NYC?

There are many meaningful ways to make a difference:

• Donate to help homeless people — financial support allows organizations like Services for the UnderServed to expand housing, mental health care, and emergency services.
• Volunteer — serve meals, assemble hygiene kits, support outreach events, or lend your professional skills.
• Advocate — raise awareness about the needs of unhoused people and support policies that expand affordable housing.
• Give essentials — coats, socks, toiletries, and OMNY cards are always in high demand.
• Support nonprofit organizations and charities that help the homeless in NYC — your contribution strengthens the entire ecosystem of care.

Why Supporting Organizations Serving the Homeless Matters

Homelessness is not a personal failure — it is a systemic issue rooted in housing shortages, economic inequality, mental health challenges, and lack of access to care. Many unsheltered people are navigating trauma, disability, or chronic health conditions. Organizations like Services for the UnderServed work to break these cycles by offering:

• Permanent supportive housing
• Mental health and substance use treatment
• Shelter and crisis services
• Employment and skills training
• Veterans’ services
• Reentry support

Every donation, volunteer hour, or shared resource helps someone move from surviving to thriving.

How You Can Support Services for the UnderServed Today

Services for the UnderServed is one of the leading organizations that help the homeless in New York City, serving thousands of individuals and families each year. When you support Services for the UnderServed, you help provide:

• Safe, stable housing
• Mental health and wellness programs
• Employment pathways
• Food security
• Community support for people with the greatest needs

Your support creates real, measurable change. Whether you choose to volunteer, advocate, or donate to help homeless people, you become part of a citywide movement to ensure that every New Yorker has a place to call home.

Wednesday, June 10, 2026
Tribeca Rooftop, 2 Desbrosses St. New York City

The Dinner for a Better New York—curated by TV personality, chef, and S:US Board Member Andrew Zimmern—brings together extraordinary food, inspired philanthropy, and a community committed to making New York stronger. Enjoy a vibrant cocktail reception with several tasting stations on a 360° rooftop overlooking the Manhattan skyline, followed by a beautifully crafted four‑course sit-down dinner all prepared by some of New York City’s most sought-after celebrity chefs.

The Dinner for a Better New York is an evening shaped by bold flavors, big heart, and the shared belief that our city can thrive when we come together. Building on the momentum of last year’s inspiring event, we look forward to another powerful evening celebrating community impact and the work that moves our city forward. Watch last year’s highlight video.

Pre-register for a sponsorship, table, tickets, or journal ad today!

• Learn more about S:US’ leadership.
• Learn more about S:US’ services.

HOPE Count at a Glance

The Homeless Outreach Population Estimate (HOPE) Count is New York City’s annual, overnight count of individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness. This year’s count took place from Tuesday, March 10 at 10 PM to Wednesday, March 11 at 4 AM, mobilizing volunteers across all five boroughs.

Why It’s Essential

HOPE provides a point‑in‑time snapshot of the number of people living unsheltered in public spaces. This data is vital: it guides how the city and service providers, including Services for the UnderServed, direct outreach, housing, and support resources.

Our Staff Stepped Up

Alongside more than 1,400 volunteers, Services for the UnderServed staff played a powerful role in this year’s HOPE Count. Team members from programs across the organization spent the night canvassing streets, subways, and public spaces.

Their participation reflects the heart of S:US:

• Showing up when it matters most
• Meeting people where they are
• Turning compassion into action

Their presence ensured that every person encountered was acknowledged with dignity.

Why It Matters

At Services for the UnderServed, we use insights from HOPE to:

Celebrate Earth Day by renovating a supportive housing garden with us!

Date: Saturday, April 18, 2026

Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Pizza provided for all volunteers!

Location: 620 Marcy Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11206

Participants must be 18 years or older and able to lift 30 pounds. No special skills required, just a willingness to get your hands dirty! Please wear closed-toe shoes, clothes that can get dirty, and bring a refillable water bottle.

What You Will Be Doing:

• Disassemble old garden beds
• Move apiary fencing
• Plant perennials in the food forest
• General clean-up of the garden area

Why Your Help Matters:

In celebration of Earth Day, help us transform the backyard at one of our supportive housing programs into a thriving garden. Your work at one of our S:US Urban Farms® will support residents in growing vegetables, fruits, and herbs while creating a welcoming outdoor space to relax, connect, and spend time in nature.

To RSVP, contact Siona Schmid at sschmid@sus.org.

To learn more about volunteering with Services for the UnderServed year‑round, visit our Volunteers page.